The origins of Natas do Céu can be traced back to the 18th century, when Catholic monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, Lisbon, sought creative ways to utilize leftover ingredients from their renowned production of Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese egg tarts). These resourceful monks ingeniously combined the surplus egg whites, sugar, and cream to create a new and delightful dessert — the Natas do Céu. The recipe quickly spread among various convents and monasteries throughout Portugal and even reached countries with Portuguese influence, such as Brazil, Mozambique, Macau, Goa, and East Timor.

During the Liberal Revolution of 1820, which led to the dissolution and closure of many religious orders by the government, the surviving monks faced the challenge of finding new avenues to sustain themselves and market their culinary creations to the public. In an effort to preserve their recipes and legacy, the recipe for Natas do Céu was sold to a nearby sugar refinery. This refinery later opened a pastry shop known as Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém, which has since become an iconic establishment renowned for its Pastéis de Nata and Natas do Céu.

Creating Natas do Céu requires only a handful of ingredients: eggs, sugar, water, cream, and Maria biscuits. The Maria biscuits, thin and slightly sweet, were originally created in Britain in 1874 to commemorate the marriage of Princess Maria Alexandrovna of Russia to Prince Alfred, the second son of Queen Victoria. These biscuits gained immense popularity not only in Portugal but also in other parts of Europe, Asia, and Latin America. They are often enjoyed with tea or coffee or used as a base for cakes and desserts.

To assemble the dessert, the egg yolks are cooked with sugar and water over low heat until they transform into a luscious and thick custard. Meanwhile, the egg whites are whipped with sugar until they form stiff peaks, and the cream is whipped separately until it reaches a velvety consistency. The Maria biscuits are crushed into fine crumbs, adding a delightful texture to the dessert.

In a large glass bowl or individual serving glasses, the layers of Natas do Céu come to life. The first layer consists of the crumbled Maria biscuit crumbs, providing a delectable base. Next, a layer of whipped cream is delicately spread atop the crumbs, followed by a layer of the silky egg custard. The process is repeated, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures. The final layer, crowned with whipped cream, completes the masterpiece. The dessert is then refrigerated until it sets, allowing the flavors to meld and the textures to meld into a heavenly combination. Before serving, a sprinkle of cinnamon adds a touch of warmth and fragrance to the dessert, elevating its sensory appeal.

Lisbon.vip Recommends

Natas do Céu is not merely a dessert; it is a symbol of Portuguese culture, history, and celebration. It showcases the profound influence of the Catholic Church on Portuguese cuisine, underscoring the country's deep-rooted traditions. Furthermore, the dessert pays homage to Portugal's rich legacy of exploration and discovery, as it reached far-flung corners of the globe through the country's colonial history. Natas do Céu encapsulates the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Portuguese people, who transformed simple ingredients into a delightful and elegant culinary masterpiece.

This heavenly dessert holds a special place in the hearts and homes of the Portuguese people. It is savored on joyous occasions such as Christmas Eve dinners, New Year's Eve celebrations, Easter feasts, birthdays, and anniversaries. Moreover, Natas do Céu has become an everyday delight, enjoyed by families and friends across the country, as a testament to the simple pleasures and moments of indulgence that bring people together.

As one takes a bite of Natas do Céu, the flavors unfold, offering a rich and creamy texture, a delicate sweetness, and an aroma that evokes a sense of pure bliss. This delightful dessert not only transports the senses to Portugal but also creates an experience akin to tasting a slice of heaven itself. Natas do Céu is a divine treat that exemplifies the exquisite and unforgettable flavors of Portuguese cuisine.